Maya Jama is set to return for the third season of Guy Ritchie's Netflix series, "The Gentlemen," according to reports. Her confirmed appearance comes as stars of the show have publicly dismissed rumors that Meghan Markle might join the cast.
Jama, who gained prominence as a presenter for "Love Island," made her scripted acting debut in the second season of "The Gentlemen." She portrays Aisha, the wife of a criminal associate of Theo James's character, Eddie Horniman.
A source told The Sun that Jama confirmed her return for the third series at the show's premiere earlier this week. "Maya was great in season two and bosses will be glad to see her back for the third series," the source stated. "She's pulled in even more viewers and was a natural on set."
Jama also shared her positive experience working with director Guy Ritchie, describing him as "reassuring" and a "genius." "He doesn't feel as intimidating as you'd think, being who he is," she said. "He's very personable and he would be like, 'Yeah, you're doing well', and reassure me, which was really nice."
Cast Members Address Markle Rumors
Meanwhile, cast members have actively refuted claims that Meghan Markle might appear in the crime drama. Theo James, who plays Eddie Horniman, joked about the speculation. "No. Prince Harry is playing one of my love interests. So that's the Meghan Markle thing," he said, later adding that he believed it was a "spurious rumour" but that she "would fit in well because she's actually from the Royal Family." He also noted the "practicalities of that are impossible."
British actor Ray Winstone also dismissed the rumors, stating it was the "first I've heard of it," though he humorously added that Markle would be a "better-looking" addition than him. Hugh Bonneville described the speculation as "a genius bit of marketing by the person who dreamt up that idea."
Vinnie Jones, another cast member, called the rumors "hot air" and suggested that the show already has "a lot of pretty women in this series, so I'm not sure there's enough room for any more."
Jama herself stated, "I’d be the last person to know" when asked about the rumors. Guy Ritchie reportedly declined to comment on the speculation during the red carpet event.
Plot Details for Upcoming Season
The new glimpse at the upcoming series suggests that James's character, Eddie, will aim to regain complete control of his estate by taking on the Glass family's empire. The dialogue hints at ambitions to expand their criminal enterprise, potentially involving efforts to "decriminalize marijuana."